Pollyanna is a delightful bit of escapism. Sure she's the most optimistic character in literature and the plot is ever bit saccharine, but sometimes that's exactly what you need. There are plenty of novels available that are realistic and full of depressing subjects, and sometimes it's good to read something that isn't that. I'm not going to start believing that I can make such a huge difference, but this book does make me feel a little bit more positive.